Substance Abuse

Southwestern is dedicated to providing a healthy and safe environment for students, employees and visitors. The college recognizes alcohol and other drug abuse as debilitating illnesses affecting a person's physical, mental and emotional well-being. Substance abuse impairs both academic and vocational performance. As a result of the unhealthy and unsafe effects of alcohol and other drug abuse, Southwestern believes the unlawful possession, sale and use of illicit drugs and the unlawful use of alcohol are wrong and harmful.

Policy

Employees, students and visitors at Southwestern are prohibited from possessing or using any illegal or controlled drug or substance in either refined or crude form, except under the direction of a licensed physician. Those who violate any provision of federal or state law pertaining to the manufacture, possession, purchase, sale or use of illegal or controlled drugs on college property will be referred to the appropriate civil authority.

Possession and use of intoxicants on the college campuses is prohibited, except as permitted under Board of Trustees Policy 7015/Administrative Policy, as amended. Irresponsible behavior, attributed to the influence of intoxicants, to include underage drinking, is not condoned. The behavior will be subject to actions by civil authorities and the college, based upon current policies.

Penalties

Employees and students also may be subject to college disciplinary action. Students are subject to the

• Loss of financial aid
• Mandatory referral to counseling/treatment
• Notification to the appropriate civil authority for prosecution and
• Possible expulsion

Smoking Policy

In consideration of the Illinois Clean Indoor Air Act, smoking and use of tobacco products are prohibited in all District 522 college facilities and vehicles. Additionally, Board of Trustees Policy 7002 controls outdoor smoking in such a manner as to provide no-smoking zones at designated building entrances and near fresh air intakes. The Chief Administrative Officer, at each college-owned facility, is responsible for creating these designated areas. Smoking policies are also established by local school districts for their respective off-campus sites. Local off-campus site coordinators provide this information to Southwestern students each semester.

Higher Education Act, Section 120 requirements:

Description of drug and alcohol-abuse education program required under the Higher Education Act, Section 120 is published in the Southwestern Illinois College Student Handbook.